Comparative evaluation of compressive strength and surface microhardness of EQUIA Forte, resin-modified glass-ionomer cement with conventional glass-ionomer cement.

PURPOSE

The study aimed to evaluate and compare the compressive strength and surface microhardness of EQUIA Forte, light cure, and conventional glass-ionomer cement (GIC).

METHODOLOGY

Fifty-four pellets of G-Coat (GC) Gold Label 2, GC Gold Label light-cured universal restorative material, and EQUIA Forte GIC were prepared of dimensions (6 × 4) mm and were divided into three groups (18) each and were stored at 37°C for 1 h and then immersed in 20 ml of deionized water, artificial saliva, and lactic acid six each, respectively, over 30 days. Samples were subjected to surface microhardness and compressive strength test on the 1 day, 7 day, and 30 day. Results were subjected to ANOVA and Bonferroni post hoc test.

RESULTS

Comparing the compressive strength of EQUIA Forte from day 1 to 30 when placed in artificial saliva, there was a significant increase on day 30 (P = 0.007); compared to other groups. The surface microhardness of EQUIA Forte from day 1 to 30 when placed in artificial saliva nonsignificantly decreased comparing to other groups.

CONCLUSION

Surface microhardness and compressive strength of EQUIA Forte were significantly high in comparison to the other groups.